He had punishment earned.

For the Abbot was one who but rarely had missed

The least chance that he had of his toe getting kissed.

Not exactly saluting his bunions, I mean,

But of causing his sway to be visibly seen.

By all other folks humbling he thought he should rise,

So had made it a point all the world to despise;

Ev'ry small fault exposing which hidden might pass,

Was tracked out like a snake by the trail in the grass.

"Sir, I'm sorry," he said, in a sarcastic tone,